The Mingo Junction Social Services office expects an increase in needy families when Severstal Wheeling idles the electric arc furnace this month.

Social Services Director Sophie Schoolcraft said, "I expect more people to come for utilities and if anyone from the mill signs up for an Easter basket, we're willing because we've lived on their income tax in this city."

Schoolcraft is already seeing her $1,000 monthly budget stretched thin and was forced to cut service to Rayland and Dillonvale.

Last year the agency helped 225 families pay utility bills compared with 185 families in 2007.

"There are times when we ask clients if they can contribute a little bit," said Schoolcraft.

With the Easter holiday around the corner, Schoolcraft said more families are signing up for food baskets.

"My heart aches for those who are man and wife working at $7.50 an hour," she said. "I don't know how they could possibly make ends meet."

When the electric arc furnace idles this month, Schoolcraft said there may not be enough money to help everyone.

"You feel guilty you have to turn them away but there's only so much money," she said.

Schoolcraft said besides her monthly budget from the United Way she relies greatly on donations from the public and area churches.

She said even though the number of people in need has increased, thankfully, she hasn't seen a drop in donations.

-NEWS9